for a friend.” Hearing this response, Satan set up camp right outside the hermitage.

Now, observe the manner in which this wretched being misleads. The vile Satan worshipped continuously outside the hermitage for three consecutive days; during this time, he neither slept nor consumed any food or drink. Since he was in human form and Barṣīṣā perceived him as a man, he was greatly impressed by his worship. Barṣīṣā remarked: “I have been worshipping for 200 years but have not yet attained this station; I still require sleep and am dependent on food and drink. (Would that I too could worship like you! How did you attain this rank?)”

Satan replied: “The reality of the matter is that I once committed a sin. Whenever I recall that sin, I enter this state; then I feel neither hunger, nor thirst, nor the need for sleep. Since you have never committed a sin, you do not experience this state. If you wish to become like me, then commit one sin! Subsequently, the fear of Allah will overwhelm you, and you too will be able to worship continuously without eating or drinking, just as I do.”

Barṣīṣā said: “How can I now disobey the Compassionate Lord whom I have worshipped for so long?” Satan replied: “When a person commits a sin, he moves towards seeking pardon, (becoming a petitioner for forgiveness out of Allah’s fear. Therefore, to attain this station, you must commit one sin).”

These words of Satan misled Barṣīṣā and he asked: “Very well, tell me which sin should I commit?” Satan suggested: “Commit adultery!” Barṣīṣā refused. Satan then said: “Murder someone!” Barṣīṣā did not agree to this either. Satan finally said: “Fine, then drink wine!” To this, Barṣīṣā agreed.

So, Barṣīṣā purchased wine and drank it. He became intoxicated, and in the state of intoxication, he committed both adultery and the sin of unlawful murder. When he committed such grave crimes, he was arrested and sentenced to be hung.